Jakarta, February 5, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Creative Economy/Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Irene Umar, met with the Indonesian Association of Fine Art Galleries (AGSI) to discuss challenges in managing galleries and museums in Indonesia.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf/Bekraf - Wamenekraf berdiskusi untuk mengoptimalkan dukungan pemerintah terhadap perkembangan industri galeri dan museum di Indonesia khususnya pada proses ekspor dan impor karya seni.During the meeting, Irene reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the development of the gallery and museum industry, particularly through accelerating more flexible regulations. One of the main obstacles raised by AGSI is the complex bureaucracy surrounding the export and import of artworks.
"The government will work closely with Customs to simplify the export and import procedures for artworks. Additionally, we are exploring financing solutions to ensure that the art industry can thrive more optimally," Irene stated at Menara Merdeka, Jakarta, on Thursday (February 6, 2025).
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf/Bekraf
Furthermore, the Deputy Minister encouraged art industry players to take advantage of government-provided financing facilities, such as the People’s Business Credit (KUR) and cooperatives. These programs are expected to help gallery managers overcome capital challenges.
"We want to ensure that the fine arts industry has easier and more affordable access to financing. KUR and cooperatives can be viable solutions to support the continuous growth of the art ecosystem," she added.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf/Bekraf
The Chairperson of AGSI, Maya Sujatmiko, expressed that the gallery industry in Indonesia still faces various challenges, particularly regarding the limited availability of adequate exhibition spaces.
"Government support is crucial. Competition with international galleries is becoming more intense, while the availability of exhibition venues remains limited. This poses a significant challenge for us," said Maya.
AGSI hopes the government can provide concrete support in creating a more conducive ecosystem for the gallery and museum industry, both at the national and international levels.
Dok. Biro Komunikasi Kemenekraf/Bekraf
"We hope there will be tangible follow-up actions from this discussion that will positively impact the fine arts sector in Indonesia," Maya added.
In addition to discussing industry challenges, the meeting also highlighted the potential for organizing Jakarta Art Week, which is expected to serve as a platform for local artists and galleries to gain global recognition. The Ministry of Creative Economy is ready to support this initiative as part of its efforts to boost the growth of the national fine arts industry.
Also present at the meeting was the Acting Director of Fine Arts and Performing Arts, Dadam Mahdar.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of the Communications Bureau
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
